Seeking a Hand Up,Not a Handout Car Needed to Build a Safer Life, Auburn, WA

Dear Community,

My name is Jasmine Hansel, and I am a low-income mother of three beautiful children. I’m reaching out today with an open heart and a deep hope that someone out there might be able to help us take the next step toward stability and healing.

Not long ago, I had to make one of the most difficult decisions of my life. I left a life-threatening and abusive relationship to protect myself and my children. It was not something I ever imagined I’d have to do, but when your life and your children’s safety are at risk, you find the courage to do the impossible. We left everything behind—our home, our support network, and most of our belongings—and relocated to King County to start over in a safer environment.

While we are grateful to be safe, starting over from scratch has been incredibly hard. One of the biggest barriers we are facing right now is transportation. I am in urgent need of a reliable car so I can take the next steps toward rebuilding our lives.

In a place like King County, a car is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Public transportation options are limited, especially when you're a single mother trying to manage multiple responsibilities. Getting to job interviews, work, school drop-offs, medical appointments, grocery stores, and social services without a car is nearly impossible. I’ve had to turn down job opportunities because I simply couldn't get there on time or at all. I’ve missed important appointments and struggled to meet my kids' basic needs due to the lack of reliable transportation.

As a low-income, single mother, I am doing everything I can to get back on my feet. I’m actively job-hunting, applying for assistance programs, and trying to create a stable, loving home for my children. But without a car, every step forward feels like climbing uphill with no end in sight. A vehicle would not only help me secure employment, but it would also allow me to get my children where they need to be—safely, consistently, and without constant stress or fear.

Having a car would mean independence. It would mean dignity. It would mean not having to choose between making a job interview or taking my child to the doctor. It would mean the difference between surviving and actually starting to thrive.

I’m not asking for a handout—I’m asking for a hand up. Whether you’re able to donate a vehicle, help connect me with someone who has one, contribute toward a purchase, or simply share my story, I would be deeply grateful. Even small acts of kindness can change the direction of someone’s life—and right now, I’m praying for that change.

If you are able to help in any way, or know someone who might be, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your support means more than you know.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Jasmine Hansel
253-410-2095
jazzyholman509@gmail.com